Customer Reviews:
 Diamond bollocks November 29, 2007
Richard Allen
2 out of 3 found this review helpful
This is Neil Diamond's last great album, possibly his greatest. After this record, his stage persona would unfortunately take precedence and the genius songwriting became secondary to the performance and image of showman Neil Diamond. But these eight songs see Neil climax on a high. This is Neil's most spiritually potent album, with almost every track emanting a life-affirming, profound vitality. I've Been This Way Before, Lady Magdelene, Rosemary's Wine and The Last Picasso are beyond criticism - superb songs shimmering with the holy spirit and sung and played to perfection. The remaining four are simply good, although on first listen the bogus Jamaican accent on Reggae Strut might provoke a raised eyebrow. But Neil was obviously stoned on some potent marijuana and who can blame him? I prefer Moods as a complete album, but for the sheer power and holy wonder in the aforementioned four tracks, especially the spine-tingling Rosemary's Wine (a nod to Everybody's Talkin'), this album is one of the most spiritually resonant collections of popular music ever laid on tape.
No Donkey Serenade - Pure Thoroughbred April 4, 2007
Music Man (England)
5 out of 5 found this review helpful
Diamond signed for Colombia records for a then worldwide record fee, after leaving MCA with the classic "Moods" album. He then promptly took a sabbatical for a period of years and then decided to return with a soundtrack for a seagull! To say that Colombia was worried is an understatement!
However, they needn't have been. "JLS" was a success, and "Serenade" proved to be a master class, the natural successor to "Moods"
His voice, songs, musical arrangements and diversity are exhilarating. From start to finish, all songs are superb. He gives us pure love songs, religious tinged songs and fun songs. The excellent "Yes I Will" and "Lady Magdelene" are deep and thought provoking, whilst "Longfellow Serenade" is a return to the great singles of "Cracklin' Rosie" and "I Am...I Said".
All the tracks meld into one and leave you feeling on a high. A record of distinct quality and an essential addition to any true Diamond fan's collection
Forgotten brilliance February 24, 2006
Mr. John Evans (Northamptonshire UK)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful
This album is special. Just eight songs, with a very unusual Latin feel to several of them, but beautifully chosen, fantastic melodies and delivered with none of the schmaltz that crept into some Diamond's later works. It's one of my Neil Diamond favourites and is an essential part of my collection for unwinding.
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